Brewing a perfect cup of coffee doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does start with the right ratio. The balance between ground coffee and water can dramatically change the strength, flavor, and quality of your brew. Use too much water and your coffee tastes weak; too much coffee and it can become bitter and overpowering.
At Café Kubal, we believe coffee should taste just as good at home as it does in the café. So here’s a quick guide to help you dial in the best coffee-to-water ratio for your favorite brewing method.
General Rule: The Golden Ratio
The Specialty Coffee Association recommends 1:18, that’s 1 gram of coffee for every 18 grams (or mL) of water.
But depending on your brewing method and taste preferences, you can adjust slightly. Most people find a range between 1:15 and 1:18 to be ideal.
Drip Coffee (Automatic Machines)
Best Ratio: 1:17
Example: 20g coffee → 340g (or mL) water
This method benefits from consistency. Use a medium grind and filtered water for best results.
French Press
Best Ratio: 1:15
Example: 30g coffee → 450g water
French press gives a full-bodied, bold flavor. Use a coarse grind and steep for 4-5 minutes before plunging.
Pour-Over (V60, Chemex)
Best Ratio: 1:16
Example: 25g coffee → 400g water
Pour-over is more delicate and aromatic. Use a medium-fine grind and pour slowly in circular motions to extract evenly.
AeroPress
Best Ratio: 1:15 (but flexible)
Example: 14g coffee → 210g water
AeroPress allows experimentation. Some go even as strong as 1:10. Play around and find your favorite combo.
Cold Brew
Best Ratio: 1:8 (for concentrate)
Example: 100g coffee → 800g water
Brew in the fridge for 12-24 hours, then dilute the concentrate with water or milk when serving (usually 1:1).
Tips for Accuracy
-
Use a scale - Measuring in grams is more accurate than using tablespoons or cups.
-
Grind matters - The wrong grind size can throw off your brew even if the ratio is right.
-
Taste and tweak - Everyone’s taste is different. Start with these guidelines, then adjust to suit your preferences.
No matter how you brew, fresh-roasted beans make all the difference. Shop small-batch, ethically sourced roasts at cafekubal.com to get the most out of every ratio.